Ukraine, India Set to Finalize ‘Largest-Ever’ Missile Deal: Reports

Ukraine and India are reportedly close to signing one of the biggest deals for air-to-air missiles, according to Russian media reports. The deal for R-27 missiles worth hundreds of thousands of dollars is awaiting the final approval from the Ukrainian leadership, says Nezavisimaya Gazeta. Although there have been no confirmations from both countries, the paper quotes a source close to Ukraine’s national security and defense council, saying both nations are sensitive to Russian concerns over the deal and want to make sure that it would not irritate Moscow. The missile is question is the Vympel R-27 (AA-10 Alamo), a medium-to-long-range air-to-air missile developed by the Soviet Union similar to U.S. AIM-7 Sparrow. Equipped with infrared-homing (R-27T), semi-active-radar-homing (R-27R), and active-radar-homing (R-27AE) versions, and will be fitted to India’s MiG-29, Su-27 and Su-30 fighter jets. During the recent DEFEXPO 2012 in New Delhi, India expressed its interest in Ukrainian anti-tank missiles and new engines for Mi-family helicopters produced by the Ukrainian Motor Sich company, according to Ukrainian officials.